On 4 May 2025, Faye Collins walked the entire circumference of Ullswater Lake in the Lake District – a distance of over 20 miles. She was undertaking this challenge to raise money for St Bede’s Hospice in Gateshead, part of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Faye’s walk followed the Ullswater Way, a route that takes you through beautiful hills, woodland paths, and past the water. She completed it in 7 hours and 21 minutes, much quicker than the usual time of 8 to 10 hours! That’s a brilliant achievement.
Faye’s reason for walking was very special. Her dad sadly died from cancer in September 2024. He spent his final weeks being cared for at St Bede’s Hospice, which Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust partly funds.
Faye wanted to give something back to say thank you to the amazing hospice team who looked after her dad with such kindness and dignity. They also supported Faye and her mam during a challenging time.
Faye said that walking the Ullswater Way meant a lot to her because she used to visit the area as a child with her mam and dad. She knew her dad had completed the final stretch of the path himself, and that thought helped her keep going when the walk got tough.
Thanks to Faye’s fundraising efforts, she has already raised over £1,975.50, including Gift Aid, for Gateshead Health Charity, and there may be more to come! All the money will go towards helping other families who need the care and support that St Bede’s gives.
Faye said:
I Walked the Ullswater Way in loving memory of my dad, and any donation in my Dad’s memory and honour will go towards improving the quality of life and reducing suffering for those who need it while helping the angels working in St Bede’s to continue delivering their exceptional care.
We think she deserves a massive round of applause. What a thoughtful, strong and inspiring way to remember her dad.
Thank you, Faye, from all of us at Gateshead Health Charity and St Bede’s Hospice in Gateshead.
If you’d like to donate or read more about Faye’s story, visit her JustGiving page: justgiving.com/page/faye-collins-for-my-dad